By 2023, 28% of employees worked from home all or most of the time, while in 2019 only 10% did so working remotely has made video conferencing solutions critical, and the market for them is predicted to take off more than $2811.56 billion in 2034according to Precedence Research.
Between Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, Cisco Webex and Skype, users have plenty of options to maintain a virtual face-to-face connection. Since videoconferencing is the most important medium for business communication, having the right equipment is even more important for organizing successful meetings. If you want to ensure your meetings run smoothly, check out the following high-quality web cameras.
TO SEE: Home video setup: What you need to look and sound professional (TechRepublic Premium)
Logitech BRIO 500: Best Overall
Image: Logitech
Logitech Brio 500 is the best all-round product for business professionals. Not only does the camera produce high-quality video, it’s also secure, powered by optical and infrared sensors and equipped with secure facial recognition via Windows Hello and a privacy shutter. It offers 1080p resolution at 30 frames per second and 720p at 60 fps, which isn’t the most impressive spec on the market but is sufficient for business use. The adjustable field of view also provides flexibility to properly frame shots in different types of meetings.
Features
90 degree field of view, auto white balance, auto AI framing, privacy shutter.
Price
$99/£129
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Logitech C920S HD Pro: second
Image: Logitech
Another solid all-rounder on this list from Logitech, but for a slightly better price the C920s offers high-quality 1080p video at 30fps and dual microphones. The compact, flexible design allows the camera to be used for laptops, monitors or tripods. Thanks to built-in HD autofocus and light correction, you look clear and defined in any lighting environment.
Features
Low light settings, autofocus, 78 degree field of view, dual microphone.
Price
$69.99/£91.99
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NexiGo N60 1080P: Best budget
Image: NexiGo
The most affordable option on this list, the N60 1080P from Nexigo offers high-quality 1080p video at 30 fps with a built-in noise-canceling microphone. This camera, which comes with a safety lid that you can use when not in use, only requires a USB connection to work and is compatible with Mac, Windows and Linux computers. It is also a true plug-and-play device and can be ready to use in just a minute.
Features
Noise canceling microphone, privacy protective cover, 110 degree field of view.
Price
$39.99/£39.99
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Elgato Facecam Pro: Best resolution
Image: Elgato
If you’re looking for the best possible camera quality, look no further than the Elgato Facecam Pro. It produces a 4K image and can stream at that resolution at 60 fps, making it the first webcam with this capability. Please note that most videoconferencing packages, including Zoom, Team and Google Meet, can only output streams at a maximum quality of 1080p.
Features
4K at 60 fps, 90 degree field of view, autofocus.
Price
$299.99/£299.99
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Razer Kiyo Pro Ultra: best low-light performance
Image: Amazon/Razer
The biggest appeal of the Razer Kiyo Pro Ultra is its image quality in low light. With a built-in ring light, the webcam illuminates the speaker in any lighting scenario. The camera can record at 60fps at 1080p or 720p and 30fps at 4K, but keep in mind that most meeting solutions limit streaming resolution to 1080p. This camera is ideal for professionals who regularly work in dark or noisy environments.
Features
4K resolution, privacy shutter, ring light, omnidirectional microphone.
Price
$299.99 / £299.99 on Amazon.
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What resolution is best for a video conferencing webcam?
Webcam technology has become so advanced that many devices offer up to 4K resolution. However, the limiting factor is the hardware and conferencing software used to host video calls. Most of these only support streaming up to a maximum resolution:
- Zoom: Basic: 360p, Pro: 720p, Business, Education, Enterprise: 1080p
- Microsoft Teams: 1080p
- Google Meet: 1080p
- Cisco Webex: 1080p
- Skype: 1080p
Therefore, a webcam used primarily for video conferencing on one of these apps does not need to support higher resolution streaming than 1080p. Since better quality cameras tend to be more expensive, companies could try to save some budget by forgoing the top of the line devices and choosing one that only supports 1080p.
On the other hand, individuals may want to use the webcam with apps without quality limitations, and there is no guarantee that said apps won’t be upgraded to support higher resolutions in the future. Those who like a crystal clear image may want to consider a more advanced device.
How do I choose a good webcam for video conferencing?
The best webcam for you depends on the balance between your priorities and your budget. However, here are some basics to keep in mind:
- Video Quality: Minimum 1080p resolution and 30 fps.
- Field of view: A range of 65 to 90 degrees and autoframing setting.
- Sound quality: Built-in microphone with noise cancellation technology.
- Security: Physical privacy shutter.
- Mounting options: Adjustable clip or stand that works on monitors and flat surfaces.
- Compatibility: Plug and play support with your operating system and video conferencing app.